Scotland's internal medicine simulation strategy: A 5-year journey

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Physician Training
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• The UK implemented a revised 3-year Internal Medicine (IM) stage 1 curriculum in 2019.
• This curriculum emphasized simulation-based education, leading to national integration in Scotland.
• Bespoke training courses were developed for IM trainees across all three years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation and impact of a national IM simulation training strategy in Scotland.
• To detail the structure, content, and evaluation methods of the simulation courses.
• To assess the benefits of simulation training for IM trainees.

Main Methods:

• Development of a multi-year simulation training program with stakeholder input.
• Delivery of immersive simulation, communication workshops, and procedural skills training.
• Evaluation through questionnaires, data tracking, interviews, and annual reviews.

Main Results:

• Trainees demonstrated improved communication and non-technical skills transfer to clinical practice.
• Increased confidence in procedural skills was reported by trainees.
• The program aligned with IM stage 1 curriculum outcomes and supported competence progression.

Conclusions:

• The Scottish IM simulation training strategy effectively enhances trainee skills and confidence.
• Simulation training is crucial for developing competent physicians and supporting the NHS.
• Ongoing delivery of this training is invaluable for the IM stage 1 program in Scotland.